Netanyahu's Rare Stadium Visit Sparks Election Campaign Accusations

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly considering attending a major Israeli Premier League soccer match between Beitar Jerusalem and Maccabi Tel Aviv at Teddy Stadium on Monday evening, just eight days before the upcoming Knesset elections. Netanyahu, a self-proclaimed fan of Beitar Jerusalem, has not been seen at a team match since March 2021. His attendance would be a rare event, marking only his fourth visit to Teddy Stadium since October 2013. Previous visits occurred in October 2013, February 2020, and March 2021, all preceding elections. The outcomes of these past games varied, with Beitar winning twice and losing once, and Netanyahu leaving one match early. However, the potential appearance has drawn criticism from some Beitar Jerusalem fans. A post on a prominent fan page, "Beitar Jerusalem - The Flower in My Garden," accused politicians of using the team for election propaganda, stating that Teddy Stadium should not be a "branch of any party" and Beitar should not be a "backdrop for an election campaign." The fans highlighted instances where politicians were absent during the club's financial struggles and when the stadium required upgrades, questioning their commitment beyond photo opportunities. They emphasized that their love for Beitar should not be exploited for political gain and urged politicians to show support through actions, not just during election periods.

The fans' statement clarified that their criticism was not directed at any specific political party or leader, including Netanyahu or Itamar Ben-Gvir, but rather at the general practice of using sports for political purposes. They stressed that Beitar Jerusalem existed long before the current election cycle and would continue to exist after it, and that genuine support should be demonstrated consistently, not just when cameras are present.